Self Storage Facility and Mini Storage Units Self Storage Tips

Packing MaterialsPreparation Is Key

Get the packing materials for storage that you will need - packing paper, moving blankets, moving pads, strong cardboard boxes of various sizes and tools to dismantle appliances and furniture if needed. Make the most of your time here. By doing so, you will be saving yourself countless headaches just by properly preparing for storage.

Stackable BoxesThink Tetris

Using stackable boxes will help you more easily arrange them. Heavier items should go in smaller boxes which can hold up to the weight and are easier to transfer. Lighter items can go in larger boxes. In your storage place heavier and stronger items first like refrigerator, dishwater and tools. Ligh and unbreakable things go on top.

DishwareThe Breakables

Use special dishpack boxes for dishes and breakable items for better protection. Wrap every plate individually in at least one layer of packing paper and place it on an edge.

PaddingBottom Cushion

When packing glassware and china always use a lot of cushioning at the bottom of the box and above the items. Place heavier items on the bottome and fragile items on top.

DisassemblyThe Breakdown

It would be easier to move and store furniture and electronics if it is disassembled. This includes breaking down bed frames.

MattressesWrap It Up

Mattresses should be shrinkwrapped or go into mattress bags or old mattress covers. Using two fitted sheets can also work.

Drawers & ShelvesUse It Twice

Use drawers and shelves inside furniture to arrange more things. Think of it like using the same space twice.

FragileMust Be Italian

You can place small, fragile items in drawers as well, wrapped in towels. Larger fragile items could use crates.

Chest of DrawersSmall and Light

A chest of drawers is also appropriate for small and light items like pictures, clothes, souvenirs, etc.

Surface SpaceTop Shelf

Use the tops of drawers, dressers, cupboards, etc. to store other items. Try to fill up all the space.

Money SaverUse What You Have

If you wish to save on packing materials, you can use your own towels and blankets.

FurnitureSnuggle Up

For furniture you can use blankets, moving pads and shrink wrap to protect them..

AppliancesClean and Dry

Appliances like a fridge or freezer should be stored clean and dry. Always leave the door slightly open to let air circulate and prevent mold. All other appliances should be store with the door closed for safety.

ChairsStackable

If storing chairs, place them on one another with the chair on top being positioned with its seat down so that it faces the seat of the other chair. Use the small space in between the chair legs to put things as well.

Table LegsSpace Saver

It would be best if you could separate the legs of the table to save space. Wrap each leg in towels separately. The table top can then be wrapped and stored on it's side.

MirrorsSandwich Like

For mirrors use crates or cardboard boxes in order to protect them. Smaller mirrors could be wrapped in pieces of cardboard and larger mirrors could go into crates.

LampshadesWrap & Nest

Wrap lamp shades with packing paper and place them inside each other, doing so will keep them protected.

Picture FramesMemory Saver

For photo frames, wrap them and place them in a drawer or use their original or similiar box to store them.

Fill UpTop It Off

Fill up every box entirely in order to prevent it from collapsing. Soft goods such as curtains can fill voids.

CouchesPlace On End

If you will be storing couches, place them on their ends and make use of your storage unit's vertical space.

LabelingHemmingway

Label every box with its content and which room it belongs to on its top and on each of its sides. You can keep a list with the boxes and their content so that you know what you've stored.

HardwareThe Underbelly

Keep bolts and other hardware in a plastic bag and tape it to the item it belongs to - the bottom of the table, place it inside a shelf of the wardrobe, etc. Save yourself a future headache!